The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed reports claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, ordered officers to shoot anyone found carrying illegal firearms, describing the reports as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said the viral reports circulating on social media misrepresented the IGP’s comments during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State.
According to the police, the Inspector-General never issued a “shoot-on-sight” directive and his remarks were taken out of context.
“The Nigeria Police Force has noticed a misleading report claiming that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, ordered police officers to ‘shoot anyone with illegal firearms.’ This claim is false and does not reflect what the Inspector-General said,” the statement read.
The Force explained that the IGP only reminded officers that the possession of firearms is restricted to legally authorised security personnel and expressed concern over the increasing use of illegal weapons by criminals involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cult violence and other violent crimes.
The police also stressed that the use of firearms by officers is governed by Force Order 237, which clearly outlines the circumstances under which officers may lawfully use lethal force while performing their duties.
“At no time did he instruct officers to shoot anyone simply because they were found with an illegal firearm,” the statement added.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the lives and rights of Nigerians, stating that all officers are expected to operate within the provisions of the Constitution, Force Order 237 and other relevant laws.
It also urged journalists and members of the public to verify information before publishing or sharing it, warning that inaccurate reports on security matters could create unnecessary panic and erode public trust.
To further clarify the issue, the police encouraged Nigerians to watch the full video of the Inspector-General’s remarks, insisting that it clearly reflects what was said during the meeting.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated that it remains committed to carrying out its responsibilities professionally, fairly and in accordance with the law.
